Mixing Old and New: How to Blend Modern and Traditional Interior Design Styles
Trying to mix modern and traditional interior design styles may seem like an insurmountable task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few careful considerations and a bit of creativity, it is possible to create a unique and harmonious blend of old and new.
Here are some practical tips to help you successfully integrate modern and traditional interior design:
1. Identify Your Style Combo
Before you begin mixing designs, you first need to identify the types of styles you want to blend. You should have a clear vision on what you want to achieve so that every element feels like it belongs in the overall aesthetic.
Knowing modern and traditional styles are the basic component of your plan. Old designs refer to classic styles, such as Victorian, Colonial, and Tuscan. On the other hand, modern styles include minimalism, contemporary, and mid-century designs. If you look at these designs piece up individual, you immediately see a difference in their features, which is what makes this mix challenging.
2. Choose a Dominant Style
After identifying your design style combo, choose which one will be the dominant style in the room. This will be the influence style that outweighs the second design element.
For instance, if you want a traditional living room but desire a modern aesthetic, you can choose traditional furniture like a classic leather sofa or the likes, but follow a color scheme, you should opt for modern accessories in bold colors such as abstract prints and geometric rugs. This creates a lovely balance between old and new design.
3. Find a Common Ground
Incorporate accents that blend both styles together. While it may be challenging, you can always find a way to incorporate certain pieces from each style to create a dynamic and unique look that captures the essence of what you want to achieve.
One essential element you can incorporate is color. Typically, modern designs have simple color palettes, whereas traditional styles tend to use rich hues like royal blue, rich reds, and deep greens. Try balancing out the rich colors of traditional design with modern design’s plush neutral tones that will make the room appear more modern.
A unifying color palette creates a beautiful space that feels cohesive.
4. Blend Both Styles
Using old and new elements doesn’t mean you should separate them; you can blend them together to make something unique.
To achieve this, start by listing key features you desire in your design. If you want a traditional dining room to have a modern touch, you can incorporate modernistic lighting fixtures along with sleek, trendy furniture.
5. Keep the Room Functional
When designing, it is crucial to keep the room functional. While incorporating a mix of old and new, ensure that each element enhanced the overall usability of the room.
For instance, if you want to incorporate a vintage piece, such as a Victorian armchair, ensure it is still comfortable to sit in, and it matches the overall style of the room.
Final Thoughts
By blending modern and traditional elements, you can create a beautiful, unique space that is both functional and beautiful. The key is to understand your vision, choose a dominant style, incorporate accents that blend both styles, merge the two styles, and focus on the room’s functionality.